The question of whether it is safe to travel to Cologne due to Corona is a complicated one. At the time of writing (30.04.2020) strict travel restrictions due to COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) are still in place. This applies both within Germany and between Germany and other countries. There are the first signs of the lock-down being eased, with schools partially re-opening and more and more shops open each week.

The issue of when tourists will be a common sight again is even more complex. It relies on the measures to replace the lock-down being agreed and free movement being restored between Germany and other countries. At present the borders are expected to be shut to leisure travelers until at least 14 June. Those nations that are further ahead in the course of the outbreak (such as South Korea and China) have implemented strict rules. They are requiring arriving passengers to be quarantined on arrival – clearly impractical in the context of tourism.

Airlines are also going to be part of the recovery. This means we are keeping a careful eye on announcements from British Airways and others as to how they see the reopening taking place. But again, there is so far only limited information to go on.

So not only do we need to wait for it to be safe to travel to Cologne, we also need it to be practical. But this does not mean that we are not doing anything here at Art of Touring. Here is a message from our founder, Nadia.

How Art of Touring is responding to Corona

We have been coming up with new ideas for things to do after movement restrictions are over. Alongside this, our Instagram feed has been reinvigorated with new posts and inspiration for future visitors.

We also recognize that we may have to change the way we do things. We want to tackle issues of hygiene and safety, for example exploring alternative audio systems which will enable each guide to use their own microphone rather than having to borrow microphones that have already been used by others. Social distancing within the context of a tour is also difficult but we can overcome this to some extent by making sure our audio technology is top-notch so people can hear the guide without having to get too close to each other.

While this has been a painful period for everyone, we have to be thankful that our entire team is still healthy, well and motivated to hit the ground running just as soon as it is practical and safe to travel to Cologne once again.

“We are getting inspired for new things to do and to show people as soon as this is possible. We hope to welcome you soon again in Cologne”

]]>Beethoven’s Bonn: 5 essential things to do in Bonn in 2020http://artoftouring.com/beethoven-bonn-2020/
Thu, 05 Mar 2020 11:18:28 +0000http://artoftouring.com/?p=14562020, the opening of a new decade, is a year to celebrate. And in Bonn they have particular reason to get excited. This year marks the 250th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth, and there are so many things to see and to do in the city as a result! Millions of euros have been spent on […]

]]>2020, the opening of a new decade, is a year to celebrate. And in Bonn they have particular reason to get excited. This year marks the 250th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth, and there are so many things to see and to do in the city as a result!

Millions of euros have been spent on a program of events and year-long festivities. But how can you make the most out of a short trip to Bonn? That’s where Art of Touring comes in: your local guide.

Tip 1: Visit Beethoven’s birthplace: a historic house that is now a museum and concert hall

The single most important building for the Beethoven story lies at number 20 Bonngasse: the Beethoven Haus. This is the building in which the great composer came into the world and where he spent his early years. Though not blessed with a happy childhood, the way his life started here went on to shape who he was to become.

Today, the house is packed with one of the world’s best collections of artifacts to do with Beethoven. Visitors can see portraits, letters, original instruments and manuscripts. They all have a direct connection to the great man himself. There are even ear trumpets on display that Beethoven used later in his life when his hearing deteriorated.

The house itself is small and so the number of visitors allowed inside at any one time is limited. As it is one of the most popular things to do in Bonn online booking is highly recommended so you have a time slot in which you are guaranteed entry. There are audio guides in English which are good but we would recommend booking a guided tour – truly the best way to appreciate the magic of the place.

And of course, given the link the house has to music, you should try to make time in your visit to attend a concert. These take place in the museum’s specially constructed auditorium. A full programme is available in English. Early booking for these concerts is essential.

Tip 2: Take a Beethoven-themed walking tour around the city

Beethoven didn’t stay long in the house of his birth. His life soon started to play out in the churches, houses and streets of the city itself. This is one reason why doing a walking tour of the city is essential for any short trip to Bonn.

Whether it is one led by Art of Touring, or one using the “do it yourself” automatic information points, a walking tour is great way to unlock the hidden stories and anecdotes which bring history to life.

Visitors can see the Palace of the Prince-Electors of Cologne (now the university) where Beethoven was an organist and member of the court’s orchestra. At the back of the palace is also a beautiful lawn which the royalty of Beethoven’s era would have enjoyed.

Looking down the Hofgarten lawn next to the palace in Bonn

And just round the corner you can find a little marketplace where a quaint bookstand will certainly have something of interest.

Browse for books about Beethoven at the book market on Kaiserplatz

You will also pass by the rococo-style town hall from the 18th century. The square in front was where the composer used to meet and socialise with his contemporaries.

And then make your way to the beautiful Munsterplatz, overlooked by the most dominant church in the city, the Bonn Minster.

One of Germany’s oldest churches: Bonn Minster

The building is a mixture of styles, originating from the 11th century

Beethoven’s famous statue on the main square in front of the Minster

Here you can take a good look at the most famous statue of Beethoven in the city. The sculpture was funded by Beethoven’s admirers for the 75th anniversary of his birth. The guest of honor at the unveiling ceremony was Queen Victoria of England. But according local legend she was “not amused” to see that the statue, once revealed, was not facing her as she had expected but instead was showing her his behind. How disrespectful!

Tip 3: Go to a Beethoven concert in his hometown

With over 100 concerts taking place in Bonn throughout the year, finding your way to the right concert for you can be a challenge. But going to one has to be one of the best things to do in Bonn in 2020.

The fun

Why not soak in the atmosphere in the open air as part of the autumn installment of the BeethovenFest? From a live broadcast of the opening ceremony (8pm, Marktplatz, Friday 4 Sep) through to two concerts (8pm on Sat Sep 5, 7pm on Sun Sep 6, both on the Marktplatz) – the whole experience is open to all and free to enter.

Tip 4 Don’t forget about the other events and exhibitions about Beethoven in 2020

Open until 26th April 2020, the Kulturhaus Bonn is holding the main anniversary exhibition called BEETHOVEN WELT.BÜRGER.MUSIK (WORLD.CITIZEN.MUSIC). This is one of the best things to do in Bonn if you want to get an in-depth look at Beethoven’s life and person. You can also immerse yourself in his music thanks to a plethora of listening stations. His biography and his music are skillfully interwoven allowing you to get a great sense of how the two were interrelated.

Tip 5 Remember to take a break

If you have had your fill of all things Beethoven, there are of course so many more things to do in Bonn.

If the outdoors is your thing, then why not head to the botanical gardens or take a short trip to nearby Königswinter? In Königswinter you can visit the castles at Drachenfels. There is also Germany’s oldest rack railway to take you up to the peak of the hill for stunning views of the Rhein valley.

And finally…

You can see why we are excited to operate our walking tours and offer destination management services in Bonn and the surrounding region, particularly this year. For any enquiries, simply contact us.

]]>The tourist bus stop in Cologne: Where is it in 2020?http://artoftouring.com/tourist-bus-stop-in-cologne-2020/
Fri, 14 Feb 2020 10:37:34 +0000http://artoftouring.com/?p=1400Arriving as a tourist by coach or bus in Cologne Cologne is a tourist magnet with several million visitors expected in 2020. This number brings with it many challenges. For example, the city has to deal with over 18,000 tourist buses per year arriving in the city centre. These buses come either directly from abroad […]

Cologne is a tourist magnet with several million visitors expected in 2020. This number brings with it many challenges. For example, the city has to deal with over 18,000 tourist buses per year arriving in the city centre. These buses come either directly from abroad or are acting as transfers for guests from cruise ships moored on the Rhine (with many of them joining a guided tour organized by Art of Touring). This means the tourist bus stop in Cologne is always very busy.

Cologne’s new tourist bus stop is now on Gereonsstrasse

The city has taken two steps to tackle its tourist bus problem. Firstly: ban the buses from parking right next to Cologne Cathedral (on Komoedienstrasse). Secondly: move the tourist bus stop in Cologne further out to where there is more space.

The new stop, from January 2020, is on Gereonstraße (Gereon Street) near Boersenplatz. It lies between the IHK offices (Industrie- und Handelskammer zu Köln) and St Gereon Church.

Drivers and tour managers must be aware that buses can only wait at the stop for a maximum of 15 minutes.

If drivers want to wait somewhere for longer than 15 minutes, they have to go to the main “Buspark Köln”. This is located near the Mülheimer Bridge in a district to the north of the city centre known as Riehl, on a road called Kuhweg.

Drivers then need to time their arrival at the pick-up point on Gereonstrasse carefully, considering Cologne’s infamous traffic.

Walking between the Cathedral and the new tourist bus stop

The new bus stop for tourists is now a 10 to 15-minute walk (0.6km or 0.4 miles) from the cathedral.

The route isn’t an obvious one if you are a new visitor to the city. The city council has put signs up to mark the route between the Cathedral and the bus stop. However, they are not that obvious!

The quickest route goes:

along Unter Sachsenhausen,

turns right along Marzellenstrasse towards McDonalds,

then crosses Komödienstraße to get to the cathedral.

The first sign pointing to the “Dom” (Cathedral) at the bus stop on Gereonstrasse

What it means for Art of Touring as a guided tour operator

For groups arriving by bus, we will be starting our walking tours through the old town of Cologne and of Cologne Cathedral from the bus stop on Gereonstrasse.

This means we have prepared a new route for our walking tours, introducing our visitors to the city in a novel way. Cologne, with its rich history and culture, always has an interesting story at every corner, even those on the way to the bus!

For example, the new starting point opens up new sights at the beginning of our tour:

St Gereon’s church – one of the most beautiful of Cologne’s 12 large romanesque churches dating from the 11th and 13th centuries. It is known for its unique decagonal dome, the largest in medieval Europe.

Edith Stein Monument – dedicated to a German-Jewish nun who had converted to Catholicism, lived in Cologne, and was subsequently killed by the Nazis in Auschwitz. Interestingly the fact that the buses stop so close to this moment has led to senior members of the Catholic Church expressing their displeasure (in German)

Visible from the bus stop: one of Cologne’s most beautiful churches, St Gereon

The Edith Stein monument covered in flowers to mark the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz

Original fragments of the Roman city wall viewed at street level along with statues and a fountain attesting to the city’s long Roman history featuring some of the former emperors.

The roman theme continues with a statue of the mythical she-wolf from the story of Romulus and Remus, telling of how Rome was founded. Why is it here? Well, as Cologne is a Roman city, if Rome had not been founded, neither would have Cologne!

One of the landmarks on the way to the cathedral: The Cologne City Museum with its distinctive red and white shutters – the colors of Cologne

NS Documentation centre – the main museum in the city dedicated to the resistance movement during the Nazi period and the actions of the Gestapo (an important stop on Art of Touring’s Jewish History Tour

The Monument to Deserters from the German army during the Second World War designed in 2009 by Ruedi Baur

An important note: Flixbus buses stop elsewhere, not in the city centre!

Confusingly, this stop is not where the Flixbus service leaves from or arrives to. Long-distance buses are, controversially, still completely banned from Cologne city centre.

Flixbus offers stops:

in the neighbouring city of Leverkusen (“Köln-Nord”),

in the eastern suburb of Refrath (“Köln-Ost”) or

at the airport (“Köln-Sud”).

Travelers are then expected to make their own way into the city by taxi or public transportation.

For more information about the tourist bus stop in Cologne

]]>Recommended: The 5 best Brauhaus pubs, breweries or beer halls in Colognehttp://artoftouring.com/5-best-brauhaus-cologne/
Wed, 03 Jul 2019 13:04:09 +0000http://artoftouring.com/?p=1349Cologne residents are passionate about their Brauhaus culture. They love their famous Kölsch beer and love to drink it in their local Brauhaus. These pubs, also known as brewhouses or beer halls, are scattered throughout the city and offer a range of experiences. With so many available, the question for visitors is often: which is […]

Cologne residents are passionate about their Brauhaus culture. They love their famous Kölsch beer and love to drink it in their local Brauhaus. These pubs, also known as brewhouses or beer halls, are scattered throughout the city and offer a range of experiences. With so many available, the question for visitors is often: which is the best Cologne Brauhaus?

We took a moment out of our busy program of Cologne walking tours to sit down with Alex, one of our local guides and a enthusiast for Cologne’s unique locally brewed Kölsch beer. Read on for the inside view of his top 5 beer halls in Cologne.

From the outset, it has to be said that each Cologne resident has their own firmly held opinions when it comes to all things Kölsch. So below is just Alex’s take. Bear in mind that the one thing that people love to do here is to argue about the merits of each and every beer, Brauhaus and culinary dish in Cologne!

Number 1: Peters Brauhaus

Two fresh glasses of Peters Kölsch

Outside Peters Brauhaus, Cologne

Despite being a stone’s throw from both the Cathedral and Old Market square, Altermarkt, both flooded with tourists, Peters achieves the best atmosphere of any Brauhaus. This is backed by a quality food offer and a great Kölsch, Peters Kölsch, which gives the Brauhaus its name.

A word of warning: it can get incredibly busy, especially on the weekend, so booking is advised. However, in this case, its popularity is well earned. “It is Cologne’s best Brauhaus”, Alex firmly states.

Inside Peters Brauhaus in Cologne’s historic Altstadt

Number 2: Haus Töller

Haus Töller’s Brauhaus on Weyerstrasse, Cologne

Outside view of Haus Töller beer hall, Cologne

Other great pubs are scattered through the city. To the south west, near Barbarossaplatz, lies Haus Töller. This establishment sells one of Alex’s favored Kölsch brands, Päffgen Kölsch. And, he says, “the pub itself is also brilliant”. The Brauhaus is a Cologne institution and has a very long history, now in its 6th generation. The building itself is also old and survived the war – a rarity in this city.

What’s more, the waiters (known as Körbes) are really passionate about their beer and the culture which surrounds it. One of Alex’s best visits ended when a Körbis offered to show Alex’s group around after all the other guests had left. Despite the late hour, the waiter seemed to really enjoy taking the time to describe the architecture and the many the historical artifacts found at the site.

A word of warning though, this Cologne institution is closed through the summer months and opens again at the beginning of September!

Number 3: Päffgen on Friesenstrasse

Inside Brauerei Paeffgen, Cologne

Päffgen, as well as selling one of Alex’s favourite brands of Kölsch, brewed on site, also offers a nice atmosphere. It isn’t too touristy either. The design of the building is interesting, with an open-air courtyard out back which looks into the brewery itself.

Chimney at Brauerei Paeffgen’s brewery

The beer garden at Brauerei Paeffgen, Cologne

What’s more, visitors might spot customers taking advantage of the “take away” option. This involves coming to the brewery to collect the beer in barrels, which is the only way Päffgen sells its beer. No bottles in sight!

Number 4: Haus Unklebach in Sülz

Haus Unkelbach Brauhaus from the outside

The beer garden at Haus Unkelbach, Cologne

Serving Reissdorf, a good solid Kölsch, Haus Unklebach is known for having the best Karnival party of any Brauhaus in Cologne. On any of the Karneval days, around the time of mardi gras, you can get there at 9.00am and there will already be a massive queue waiting for the doors to open at 11.00am. In the Haus’ car park, a stage is built and the best bands in Cologne visit to entertain the crowd. “It’s really special”, says Alex.

They also have great food. Highly recommended is the onion soup. It is heavy, laden with cheese and cheese-covered croutons, but it is really tasty.

Even it though it is in the running to be Cologne’s best Brauhaus, Haus Unclebach is rarely 100% booked up. Especially with small groups, you can almost always turn up and find somewhere to sit. We would also recommend their beer garden, set back from the street and decorated with bright red and white flowers, Cologne’s city colors.

Number 5: Malzmühle

Outside view of Brauerei Zur Malzmühle, Cologne

The Brauerei Zur Malzmühle can be a bit loud and touristy, with a lot of visitors but there is such a good beer here, Malzmühle Kölsch, that it is definitely in the running to be the best Cologne Brauhaus. Along with Päffgen, Malzmühle is one of only two breweries still producing beer in the old city of Cologne.

Malzmühle also offers a ranger of beers alongside their standard Kölsch, including a Malt beer – a sweet beer which 2.5% Alcohol which tastes really good. Along with the beer, there is great “Cologne Tapas” (classic snack dishes including Leberwurst liver sausage, raw ground pork Mettwurst, delicious Frikadelle meatballs, traditional Blutwurst black pudding, and original Beemster cheese on dark Rye bread).

Your next steps to the perfect Cologne Brauhaus experience

We love to show people around this city at Art of Touring. See below for a list of the locations covered here.

]]>3 reasons to take a trip on the Cologne Cable Carhttp://artoftouring.com/3-reasons-to-take-a-trip-on-the-cologne-cable-car/
Tue, 28 May 2019 15:48:35 +0000http://artoftouring.com/?p=1321Over the course of our busy season of Cologne walking tours, here at Art of Touring we often get asked about the Cologne Cable Car (Kölner Seilbahn). This is understandable as the brightly colored gondolas are easily visible, crossing the river Rhine on the north side of the city centre. Cologne’s Cable Car has recently […]

]]>Over the course of our busy season of Cologne walking tours, here at Art of Touring we often get asked about the Cologne Cable Car (Kölner Seilbahn). This is understandable as the brightly colored gondolas are easily visible, crossing the river Rhine on the north side of the city centre.

Cologne’s Cable Car has recently reopened following extensive renovation. The reopening was cause for celebration as the route is great for day-trippers. It connects the RheinPark, the largest green space in the city centre, with the city’s Zoo and Sculpture Park.

For those willing to leave the old city behind, a trip on the Cologne Cable Car is well worth it. With locals as well, it is a favorite weekend activity. After all, in Germany Sunday shopping is not an option so people have to come up with other ways to spend their free time.

Seeing Cologne from the air is a special experience. In our view, the Cologne Cable Car is the best way to do it (and avoids having to climb the 533 steps of the Cathedral Tower!).

Adult tickets are around €5.00 for one way, €7.00 for a return trip. The cable car is open every day between April and October from 10.00am to 6.00pm. There are also special late opening events (“Nachtfahrten“) throughout the year,

Reason 1: Set off from one of Cologne’s best green spaces – the Rheinpark

The Rheinpark is a great spot: a nice restaurant on the southern edge of the park, the Rheinterrassen, offers great views of the cathedral. Numerous other stands also offer refreshment and there is even a miniature railway which is a family favorite.

Flowerbeds in the Rheinpark

Close to the point of departure, setting off over the Rhine

Technical descriptions of the system

Cable cars make their way across the sky at the Rheinpark

Much of today’s green space in Cologne was used by the Prussians in the 19th century for military purposes. The Rheinpark is no exception. Foundations of what the Prussians built are still visible and will soon be topped by a renovated cafe.

The Cologne Cable Car has been a feature of the park since 1957. It was opened for the 1957 National Flower Show, which attracted over 4 million visitors. Reaching a height of 50 meters at its highest point, the system can can carry 1,600 people per hour. It has 41 four-seater gondolas and travels a distance of just over 900m, taking 6 minutes.

Reason 2: Get to know the city a little better – 4 things to spot on the way

Claudius Therme

On the right as you leave the Rheinpark cable car station is one of Cologne’s best known spas, Claudius Therme. It offers a range of saunas, pools, and wellbeing treatments together with a great roof terrace with a view over the city.

The Zoo Bridge

Cologne is nothing without its bridges, used by hundreds of thousands of commuters each day. The Zoo Bridge, in common with other bridges in Cologne, has its own color called Kölner Brückengrün (“Cologne Bridge Green”). This shade has a history stretching back to the 1930’s and is manufactured by Bayer just up the river in Leverkusen (whose football team’s stadium is also worth a visit).

Cologne Cathedral / Colonius Tower and the Cologne skyline

From this height on a clear day, the whole city is set out before you. The view stretches to the hills to the east and west which lie outside the city. The star of the show is clearly our 157m high French Gothic cathedral. Other notable structures include the Colonia TV tower – a rare example of a structure in the city which is taller than the cathedral towers.

The busiest waterway in Europe, the Rhine itself

The river is by a long way the most significant inland waterway in Europe. Just shy of 50% of Europe’s inland waterway traffic uses the stretch of the Rhine where Cologne is located, between Basel in Switzerland and the Dutch-German border.

One favorite of Art of Touring’s visit was Edwardo Navarro’s “Letters to Earth”. It is a set of 60 bronze walnuts lying in the grass, each with a walnut seed inside. The work highlights the connection between the human and natural world, a theme shared by many of the park’s artworks. Navarro’s walnuts will eventually be buried, serving as small time capsules for future generations to discover.

The park is open throughout the year with opening times varying according to the seasons: April – September 10.30am – 7.00pm and October – March 10.30am – 5.00pm.

Roughly every two years the park’s curators change the exhibition and replace a whole swathe of the exhibits. This will next happen early in 2020. We are already looking forward to what the new additions will bring.

And that’s not all…

There are other great venues in the area which Art of Touring can include on our customized walking tours of Cologne. These include Cologne Zoo and the Cologne Flora Gardens. And just a little further west is Nippes, one of Cologne’s most vibrant quarters waiting to be explored. If you have any questions or comments, leave them below or contact us.

]]>Hipster Cologne: Belgian Quarter & Le Tour Belgiquehttp://artoftouring.com/cologne-belgian-quarter-tour-belgique/
Wed, 17 Apr 2019 13:13:30 +0000http://artoftouring.com/?p=1280The Belgian Quarter has long been a destination for people looking for something a little bit different. Named after the many streets in the neighborhood which refer to mostly Belgian and Dutch cities, Art of Touring features the quarter on some of our “Cologne off the beaten track” guided walking tours. We love showing visitors […]

]]>The Belgian Quarter has long been a destination for people looking for something a little bit different. Named after the many streets in the neighborhood which refer to mostly Belgian and Dutch cities, Art of Touring features the quarter on some of our “Cologne off the beaten track” guided walking tours. We love showing visitors a totally different side of Cologne than they see around the Cathedral and in the Altstadt.

Kölners love their events, and chief among them in this neighborhood is Le Tour Belgique.

What is Le Tour Belgique?

First off, no, it is not a cycling race. The “Tour” of the Belgian quarter is more like a shopping frenzy combined with a good old-fashioned party. There is an active theatre and music program on offer as well as clubbing well into the early hours.

The key element of the event is that the stores of the district open until 10pm and hold a series of events (DJs, readings, mini concerts). This is often accompanied by a good supply of cool refreshing Kölsch beer, locally produced Gin (from Gin de Cologne), or the tasty alcoholic concoctions made by Rheinherz.

The “KUNSTROUTE”

For art lovers, there is much on offer. The galleries in this vibrant quarter open their doors and welcome visitors. A lot of art is also attached to lampposts throughout the quarter giving the sense of a place which is bursting with creativity.

In addition, there is the street art. This ranges from small stickers to murals covering entire houses. Once you start looking for it, you will find it everywhere.

Joanna Stange’s take on street art, glowing in the dark at Stadtrevue

When and where do the events take place?

Now in its 17th year, Le Tour Belgique is always held at the beginning of spring, as the city awakens from its post-Karneval slumber.

The area of activity is focussed on Brüsseler Platz, in the heart of the Belgian Quarter, which is the number one hipster place in Cologne to hang around outside all summer and do people watching by the way.

Overall more than 60 venues take part in the festival each year meaning a fantastic diversity of retail, music, and party opportunities are on offer.

Our tips for a great Tour Belgique

It is worth hopping around the different venues to find the location and atmosphere that you like. The Markthalle (Maastrichter Straße) is always worth a stop as there is a friendly atmosphere and a variety of foods on offer. We went for the freshly baked waffles with cinnamon sugar.

Another refueling option is Wurst Case Szenario. Aside from the name being a brilliant pun, they also make a delicious sausage. They offer all things hotdog: Classic German Currywurst, American style hotdogs, and veggie options.

Don’t forget about the music. Bands play a rolling program of mini-concerts throughout the day. They really help to bring the experience to life. There are copies of the program available at all the venues, online, and through the Rausgegangen App.

Coffee is also a good fuel for your visit: the best places locally are Heilandt Coffee (Bismarkstraße) or just across the road in the Woyton Cafe (also Bismarkstraße). Here, if you’re lucky, the spring sunshine can warm you on their outside terrace.

Keep an eye out for a bargain. The shops often offer significant discounts which are great. What’s more, considering with the free drink samples on offer, you may find yourself going home with a few more purchases than you had originally intended!

Tasty hotdogs available here: Wurst Case Szenario

Fuel for the festival – hotdogs from Wurst Case Szenario

Fresh waffle with cinnamon sugar at the Markthalle

Gin from Gin de Cologne

Hr Musi and Fr Kalsich sing at Blutgeschwister

A packed Fawntastic shop, watching Wallace Water

Frau Winzig at Markthalle

Coming up in the Belgian Quarter

Le Tour is over for 2019, but hopefully you have been inspired to go next year – April 2020. There is also Chic Belgique coming up in the late summer 2019.

In the meantime, if you want to find out more, contact Art of Touring about our off-the-beaten track guided walking tours in Cologne.

]]>Recommended: events and tours at BayArena Leverkusenhttp://artoftouring.com/events-at-bayarena-leverkusen/
http://artoftouring.com/events-at-bayarena-leverkusen/#respondWed, 03 Apr 2019 11:15:06 +0000http://artoftouring.com/?p=1260Here at Art of Touring, we know that when it comes to events, meetings and conferences, our clients are always after something special. So it is good news that the Cologne region offers a fantastic range of venues where we can help you plan the perfect event. In this article we highlight one of our […]

]]>Here at Art of Touring, we know that when it comes to events, meetings and conferences, our clients are always after something special. So it is good news that the Cologne region offers a fantastic range of venues where we can help you plan the perfect event. In this article we highlight one of our favorites: BayArena Leverkusen.

At the heart of the proud sporting tradition of Bayer Leverkusen

Bayer Leverkusen is a mainstay of German football. The team was founded way back in 1904. At the start it was comprised entirely of workers from the nearby Bayer AG industrial complex. The company recognized the need to give something back to their workers, many of whom had made a move to Leverkusen from far away in order to help the company succeed. Even today, Bayer is strongly connected to the club and is still the bedrock of the local economy with over 90,000 employees worldwide.

Interestingly, the corporate origin is visible in the team’s logo. This makes it the only insignia of a European professional football team to feature a corporate logo.

Through the 60’s and 70’s the team became increasingly professionalized before entering the Bundesliga in 1979. It enjoyed national and European success in the late 80’s and 90’s and has since then been searching for an elusive third title.

Today the club is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. It also has dedicated seats for blind spectators which feature a dedicated game commentary system.

Events organized with a football flavor at BayArena Leverkusen

The Bayer Leverkusen stadium, just 30 minutes by car from Cologne, is also a fantastic venue in its own right.

The stadium was refurbished in 2009 and is one of the most modern and advanced in Germany. Companies and private parties can use a whole range of flexible spaces to host their events. In addition, there are opportunities for clients to tour the stadium, learn about the locals’ passion for the game and get involved in a penalty shoot-out.

All this is backed up by one of the best catering offers available in the region and a passionate team of local guides. They give every visitor a sense of what makes this place special.

Former striker Stefan Kiessling talks about his time at the club during a guided tour“Bayer 04” – 04 relating of course to 1904, the club’s founding yearCaring for the grass on the pitch – It has to be perfect!Michael Ballack’s jersey from his time at the club (1999-2002)

Your event. Our local knowledge.

At Art of Touring we are always on the lookout for the best locations and destinations in and around Cologne to offer to our clients. We love creating individual experiences from guided walking tours to personalized events. If you wish to find out more, contact us.

]]>http://artoftouring.com/events-at-bayarena-leverkusen/feed/0Where to see stunning street art in Düsseldorfhttp://artoftouring.com/street-art-in-dusseldorf/
http://artoftouring.com/street-art-in-dusseldorf/#respondSat, 16 Mar 2019 06:10:08 +0000http://artoftouring.com/?p=1245At Art of Touring, we are proud not only of our expert knowledge of our home city, Cologne. But we also take delight in sharing our knowledge of the whole Rheinland region on a number of regional excursions. A good example would a trip to see street art in Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf: Cologne’s local rival A […]

]]>At Art of Touring, we are proud not only of our expert knowledge of our home city, Cologne. But we also take delight in sharing our knowledge of the whole Rheinland region on a number of regional excursions. A good example would a trip to see street art in Düsseldorf.

Düsseldorf: Cologne’s local rival

A nice stop for travelers to our region would have to be the historic city of Düsseldorf. Founded in 1288, it is the regional capital and home to 620,000 Düsseldorfers. Some of them like to modestly describe their home as “Little Paris” – a term going back to Napoleonic occupation of the region in the early 19th Century. It is a sophisticated place home to one of the most important upscale shopping streets in the whole of Europe: Königsallee.

But there is so much more on offer here than just shopping. To experience the alternative side of Düsseldorf, our tip would be a walking tour of the Kiefernstrasse. A short U-Bahn ride away from the centre, it is an enchanting place of light, color and creativity.

The emergence of Kiefernstrasse’s street art

Slated for demolition in the 1970’s, the street became notorious in the early 1980s for squatting and political dissent. However today things have calmed down somewhat. The street is now home to around 800 people from some 45 different countries.

Running for 300 meters on both sides of the street is an open-air gallery painted straight onto the buildings. Visible here are monkeys, flowers, crosswords and much more. It is truly some of the most stunning street art in Düsseldorf.

Some of the incredible diversity of design of the street art on Kieferstrasse, Dusseldorf

The monumental amount of work was the brainchild of a local artist, Klaus Klinger. Klinger is a specialist in large-scale street art and has spent much of the last 30 years working with diverse communities to bring his vision to life. He came to Kiefernstrasse in 2004 with the aim of using the planning and the execution of the project as a means to bring people in contact with each other. After all, such artworks are inherently cooperative exercises. This means the artists involved must be as sensitive to the human and relational dimensions of their work as they are to the aesthetic.

Banners showing Kiefernstrasse is still a political place, with campaigns about refugee rights and policing laws

In terms of the appearance, the aim was total coverage of brick and concrete with colorful paint. And they certainly achieved it. Even the street signs have been painted over in some places: the ultimate definition of the city as a canvas.

Street art as an art form: a Rheinland speciality

The artistic value of street art in Düsseldorf, as well as its monetary value, has grown over the last few years. If you are curious to find out more, a short trip north on the tram will take you to a new street art and urban gallery – Take a Butchers – which is also well worth a visit.

Other neighborhoods of Düsseldorf also offer excellent street art – the area of Bilk being a prime example. And of course in our home city, Cologne, there are also fantastic examples in neighborhoods like Ehrenfeld, Nippes and the Belgian Quarter.

We love planning our tours to be tailored to the interests and passions of our clients. If you love graffiti and street art, our guide’s local knowledgecould offer you a great opportunity to discover what our region has to offer. Contact us to find out more or write a comment below.

]]>http://artoftouring.com/street-art-in-dusseldorf/feed/0Cologne Karneval 2021: What you need to knowhttp://artoftouring.com/cologne-karneval-questions-answered/
http://artoftouring.com/cologne-karneval-questions-answered/#respondWed, 27 Feb 2019 20:46:56 +0000http://artoftouring.com/?p=1230During the off-season for our guided walking tours millions of people fill the streets of Cologne. Why would that be? One word: Cologne Karneval. Read on to let Art of Touring, your local Cologne experts, take you through what you need to know about the festivities. What is Cologne Karneval? Karneval in Cologne is in […]

]]>During the off-season for our guided walking tours millions of people fill the streets of Cologne. Why would that be? One word: Cologne Karneval.

Read on to let Art of Touring, your local Cologne experts, take you through what you need to know about the festivities.

What is Cologne Karneval?

Karneval in Cologne is in essence one big, long party. It can be summarized by four words beginning with ‘S’: singen, schunkeln, saufen, and scherzen (singing, swinging arm-in-arm, boozing, joking).

There are two important elements to the festival. On the one hand are the street parties. On the other are the Sitzungen which are staged events. Both are full of music specific to Cologne, drinking, comedy and performance.

Typical Karneval behavior – “Schunkeln”

Indeed music has always been an important element. They say there are 10,000 songs in existence about Cologne and there are so many Karneval songs it can be bewildering. Playlists like this one give you an idea.

When is Cologne Karneval and how long does it last?

In its broadest meaning, Karneval is a whole season – the “fifth season” which starts on November 11th at 11.11am every year and runs until Ash Wednesday (the start of Lent). After an initial party on 11.11 things calm down.

The festival really starts to pick up pace in January with a program of parties called Sitzungen held usually at the weekend. The climax then begins on Fat Thursday (the Thursday before Lent) which is also known as Weiberfastnacht (the feast night of the women). In 2021 Weiberfastnacht is Thursday 11th February. Rose Monday (15th February 2021) is the biggest day for parades, and on Ash Wednesday (17th February 2021) it is all over.

What is the history of Karneval?

Originally the local Germanic tribes would have celebrated the turning of the seasons at this time of year. Later, Christianity came onto the scene and linked existing celebrations with the idea of getting all your sinful impulses out of your system before Lent.

Karneval in its current form was resurrected in 1823 with a procession through the city. It had echoes of an ecclesiastical procession and those held to celebrate the coronation of a new emperor. However right from the start the whole atmosphere was somewhat tongue-in-cheek. There was then a healthy skepticism concerning the church and political rulers and it is very much still going now.

The “Dreigestirn” Karneval leaders on stage: The Prince in the foreground wears the city coat of arms on his chest. The Virgin and Farmer are in the background. Each one is an embodiment of the spirit of Karneval.

In which city is Germany’s biggest Karneval parade?

That’s an easy one: with over 1.5 million visitors expected on Rose Monday alone, Cologne is Germany’s Karneval capital.

What is Cologne Karneval famous for?

Aside from the sheer scale, Karneval in the Domstadt is famous for its diversity. There is an extraordinary mix of traditional and alternative Karneval societies to be found. Such societies are the backbone of Karneval. They also form a fundamental element of the social structure of the city.

Three Karneval societies, and one special event, that you should know about

The Große – Cologne’s oldest carnival society dating from 1823 and known as the “mother of all societies”. It puts emphasis on tradition in its costumes and music. It also celebrates its Sitzungen in the historic Gürzenich hall, dating from the 15th Century.

StattGarde Colonia Ahoj – one of the city’s most famous Karneval societies with its roots firmly in the city’s large LGBT community. It is known for fantastic dancing, singing and musical performances.

Kölsche Kippa Köpp – Cologne’s first post-war Jewish karneval society, arriving in 2019 onto the Karneval scene. They aim to show that Jewish people have long had a role in the celebration of Karneval. Their name is a reference to a pre-war jewish bowling club (Kleiner Kölner Kegelclub), which went on to become a Karneval society, the “Kleiner Kölner Klub”.

The Immisitzung – this is a cabaret style event featuring performers and artists who live in Cologne but have their origins elsewhere. Its aim is to support the integration of Cologne’s diverse communities into the Karneval festivities under the motto “Jede Jeck is von woanders” (every clown comes from somewhere else)

Also noteworthy: the costumes

Karneval is also famous as an event where everyone (and we mean everyone) dresses up in fancy dress. Sometimes it feels like it is the people who dress normally that are the strange ones!

People commuting in Karneval costumes going down the stairs at Koeln Messe Station

The costumes people wear sometimes have meaning – many link back to the city’s religious past or show off the city’s colors and coat of arms.

Other costumes have a more practical meaning: cowboy or pilot outfits for men, and nurse uniforms for women, are signs that the wearer is single and looking to mingle!

Why do people love Karneval so much?

Firstly, Cologners love a party. They take full advantage of any excuse to have some Kölsch beers and get to know each other.

Secondly, there is also always something unexpected and unusual to see.

An example is the Geisterzug” (ghost procession), Cologne’s alternative parade. It takes place on the evening of Karneval Saturday. It has its roots in political protests against the Iraq war in the early 1990’s and continues to have a political emphasis. Each year it goes through a different neighborhood of Cologne. Go along to see all manner of vampires, witches and ghouls!

And finally, returning to the music. It is guaranteed to get to get everyone bopping along!

Kasalla, one of Cologne’s most well-known bands, perform “Stadt met K” (the city with the letter K)

How can I discover more of Cologne’s unique culture?

Art of Touring prides itself on its knowledge of our local culture, in all its dazzling shades. Our best tours are those where discussions emerge with our guests in which we can scratch the surface of the real city of Cologne and reveal its rich culture. Contact us to find out more.

]]>http://artoftouring.com/cologne-karneval-questions-answered/feed/0Alternative sights of Cologne: 3 reasons to visit Rudolfplatz in 2020http://artoftouring.com/alternative-sights-cologne-rudolfplatz/
http://artoftouring.com/alternative-sights-cologne-rudolfplatz/#respondThu, 14 Feb 2019 13:36:35 +0000http://artoftouring.com/?p=1154Any local would tell you that there is more to do in Cologne than visit its cathedral, old town, and chocolate museum (nice though they are). Here at Art of Touring we love showing people the alternative sights of Cologne. We can’t think of anywhere better to start one of our alternative guided tours than […]

]]>Any local would tell you that there is more to do in Cologne than visit its cathedral, old town, and chocolate museum (nice though they are). Here at Art of Touring we love showing people the alternative sights of Cologne. We can’t think of anywhere better to start one of our alternative guided tours than Rudolfplatz.

Read on to discover why Rudolfplatz is worth a look!

Reason 1: You can walk through the Hahnentor

In the middle ages, Rudolfplatz was the most important entrance through the city’s 12th century walls. It lies directly between Aachen, where Emperors of the Holy Roman Empire were crowned, and Cologne Cathedral. The cathedral was the most important religious site in the Empire, housing the relics of the three Magi. In fact, they are still there!

Following rapacious urban expansion in the 19th century, much of the city’s walls were torn down. They were seen as an old-fashioned hangover from a more primitive time. Only three of the wall’s twelve gates remain intact, of which the Hahnentor is one.

Wintery scene at Hahnentor at Rudolfplatz, Cologne with the tram line 1 platform in the foreground

You’re struck, walking through the gate, by the fact that this very same structure has been used for centuries. And today Rudolfplatz is still a major artery of the city. Thousands pass by every day on trams, bicycles and by car.

Reason 2: You can see where a new Cologne is emerging

Cologne planners have not always respected the city’s historical buildings but nowadays protection is a much higher priority. Rudolfplatz now sits at the centre of one of the city’s main construction projects. In the place of rather tired mid-20th century buildings, work is underway to construct a new, smart-looking development directly opposite the historic city gate. It will contain opportunities for work, leisure, eating and drinking.

Grey Rudolfplatz scene with the foundations for the new buliding being dug

A large hole dug at Rudolfplatz to prepare the way for the new development

At the same time, the transport thoroughfare either side of the site is under review as part of a revitalisation of the so-called “East-West Axis”. Up for discussion is a project costing up to €1bn to bury one of the busiest tram lines in Cologne. This would allow people to travel more easily across the city. Whether the city should pursue this project, or rather leave the tram lines at ground level, has been a hot topic. Interminable debates and public surveys came to a head at a council meeting in December 2018, at which an answer was expected. And the conclusion delivered to the waiting press was: “let’s plan both options and decide later”. A typical Cologne compromise offering flexibility at any price!

And it’s not just the commuters of Cologne who are affected by the changes to Rudolfplatz. For the last thirty years one of Cologne’s historic carnival societies, the Ehrengarde, called the Hahnentorburg home. The redevelopment of the area has meant the loss of their function room. As a result, an architect has come up with a tailor-made scheme to create function rooms on the same site. But this time they will be constructed underground. It’s a nice idea but the costs are thought to be prohibitive. What’s more, experience has shown in this city that such projects can quickly spiral out of control.

Reason 3: You can visit fantastic markets, especially at Christmas

Market lovers can get their fill of food, antiques and Christmas at Rudolfplatz.

Firstly, the antiques. In 2020 there are antiques markets from:– Friday 24 April – Sunday 26 April and – Friday 09 October – Sunday 11 October.In both cases they are open from 10.00am to 6.00pm.

Secondly, the food. There are the organic food markets (Ökomarkt) throughout the year on Wednesdays 11.00am to 6.00pm and Saturdays 8.00am to 2.00pm. In addition, every Thursday evening 4.00pm – 9.00pm there is a fantastic range of food stalls available under the “meet and eat” brand.

And finally, if you visit from 23 November to 23 December 2020, there are two Christmas Markets here – the classic “Nikolausdorf” market, offering classic Christmas market products, together with Cologne’s only LGBT Christmas Market, Heavenue. This is one of Cologne’s alternative sights in itself and is often missed. It is a sparkling and multi-colored addition to the city’s Christmas market offer.

Want to find out more about the alternative sights of Cologne?

We will be excited to show our guests around Rudolfplatz as part of our off-the-beaten track tours held through the summer. For more information, leave a comment or get in touch.